KUCHING – Sarawak has officially moved into the second and most demanding stage of its Post-COVID-19 Development Strategy (PCDS) 2030, a period anchored by the 13th Malaysia Plan (13MP) covering 2026 to 2030.
This phase is expected to be defined by the execution of policies, the delivery of initiatives, and the achievement of measurable outcomes.
Premier Datuk Patinggi Tan Sri Abang Johari Tun Openg described the transition as a shift from groundwork to performance, stressing that the government’s credibility will now be judged by tangible results rather than policy announcements.
“This is not a change of direction, but rather a sharpening of focus on implementation, delivery and results that can be seen, measured and experienced by the people of Sarawak,” he said during his address at the Borneo Convention Centre Kuching.
The earlier stage of PCDS 2030 concentrated on strengthening fiscal stability, reinforcing institutions, and laying out strategic frameworks.
With those foundations in place, the Premier emphasised that the current period must translate preparation into visible improvements in public welfare and economic growth.
Energy remains at the heart of Sarawak’s development agenda. Over the past nine years, the state has positioned its energy sector not only as a revenue source but also as a cornerstone of economic sovereignty and industrial competitiveness.
Renewable energy, particularly hydroelectric power, has provided Sarawak with a reliable, affordable, and increasingly low-carbon supply, which has become a major draw for investors.
Abang Johari highlighted that continued investment in generation capacity, grid resilience, and system reliability has bolstered investor confidence and supported sustainable growth.
He also pointed to the strengthened role of Petroleum Sarawak Berhad (PETROS), which has enabled energy policies to align more closely with development objectives and long-term public interest.
The Premier noted that 2026 is a pivotal year for Sarawak, marking the transition from planning to delivery.
He stressed that projects ready for implementation must proceed without delay, avoiding bureaucratic overlaps or excessive caution.
Clear accountability will be essential, with each major initiative under the 13MP requiring a designated party responsible for ensuring results.
Beyond energy, the state is also focusing on industrialisation, agriculture, and food security, with renewable energy expected to anchor downstream industries such as data centres and hydrogen-based ventures.
This approach is intended to ensure Sarawak’s growth remains environmentally responsible while enhancing productivity and incomes.
The Premier’s address, themed ‘9 Tahun Yang Gemilang’, underscored the importance of decisive action in the coming years.
He reiterated that Sarawak’s development trajectory must now deliver outcomes that are visible and beneficial to its people.
The event was attended by Deputy Premiers Datuk Amar Douglas Uggah Embas, Datuk Amar Awang Tengah Ali Hasan, and Datuk Amar Professor Dr Sim Kui Hian, alongside State Legislative Assembly Speaker Tan Sri Mohamad Asfia Awang Nasar and State Secretary Datuk Amar Mohamad Abu Bakar Marzuki.
